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Local News

Michigan Veteran Homes’ “Make a Veteran Smile Campaign” Invites Heartfelt Messages To Spread Holiday Joy

Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) launches the ‘Make a Veteran Smile Campaign,’ urging Michiganders to brighten the holiday season for veteran members through heartfelt letters, banners, or food tray liners adorned with personal messages. 

Tiffany Carr, MVH Community Engagement Coordinator, emphasizes the significance of community support, stating, “Sending a letter to our members is another way the community can share appreciation and support for veterans around the holidays.” 

To participate, contributors should follow helpful guidelines such as, ensuring personal notes enclosed with their card, large writing, and dark ink. Addressed letters can be hand-delivered or sent to MVH locations in Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, or Marquette. 

For more information, contact Ryan Engle at: engler3@michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Parks Enhance Green Spaces With DTE Energy Foundation Tree Planting Grant

St. Clair County Parks is set to transform local landscapes with a generous tree planting grant from the DTE Energy Foundation. The grant aims to enrich the quality of life and diversity of trees in local communities, fostering a greener, more vibrant environment. 

To mark this green initiative, a public ceremony and tree planting demonstration are scheduled for Friday, December 8th, at 10:00 a.m. in Columbus County Park. The event, located at 1670 Bauman Rd. Columbus, MI invites the community to the park lodge. 

Following the ceremony, attendees can enjoy hot cocoa and cookies by the fire pit. Volunteers, with no prior experience or tools required, are encouraged to join the tree planting efforts throughout the day. 

For more information, contact: Kirsten Lyons at klyons@stclaircounty.org or (810) 989-6317.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Cawood Auto And The Athletic Factory Join Forces For ‘Share Joy Christmas Toy Drive’

In the spirit of giving, Cawood Auto and The Athletic Factory have teamed up for the Share Joy Christmas Toy Drive, welcoming donations of new and gently used toys. 

The drop-off location at Cawood Auto, located at 2516 Pine Grove Avenue, Port Huron, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. The deadline for donations is December 15th.

All contributed toys will be distributed locally, ensuring that the joy of the holiday season reaches families in need. This heartwarming initiative is sponsored by Cawood Auto, and The Athletic Factory, uniting the community to make this holiday season brighter for children in the Blue Water Area.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Launches $4,000 Scholarship To Boost Skilled Workforce: Michigan Achievement Skills Scholarship Opens Doors To In-Demand Careers

In response to the escalating demand for skilled professionals, Michigan introduces the Michigan Achievement Skills Scholarship, which is a game-changer for aspiring students. 

With industries like healthcare, IT, manufacturing, construction, and automotive requiring increasingly specialized talents, the scholarship aims to bridge the skills gap. Graduating high school students in Michigan can now access up to $4,000 over two years to enroll in eligible career training programs. 

To qualify, applicants must be Michigan residents, high school graduates or equivalency achievers in 2023 or later, and without a prior associate or bachelor’s degree. This initiative not only propels students into rewarding careers but also bolsters Michigan’s position in the competitive landscape of skilled labor. 

For more information, visit: Michigan.gov/Achievement.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MDOT And Electreon Launch First U.S. In-Road Wireless Charging System In Detroit

Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Electreon make history with the inauguration of America’s inaugural public in-road charging system. Situated along a 1-mile stretch on 14th street near Michigan Central in Corktown, Detroit, these wireless charging roads are set to reshape the future of electric vehicle (EV) integration. 

Electreon, the pioneering force behind the development, design, evaluation, and testing, envisions electrified roadways accelerating EV adoption. Operating seamlessly on public streets, the system connects authorized vehicles directly above, to the in-road wireless charging coils. 

MDOT, in collaboration with traffic service centers, will monitor and gather real-time insights through cloud-based software. Electric vehicles utilizing this cutting-edge technology can charge while driving, in motion, and even while parked, transforming urban landscapes into sustainable energy platforms.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Police Enforce Winter Parking Ordinance To Facilitate Snow Removal

As winter descends upon us, the Port Huron Police Department issues a reminder to local residents: the City’s snow ordinance takes effect on Friday, December 1st. Parking on paved city streets is prohibited from 2:30 a.m. – 6:00 a.m. until March 31st, 2024, facilitating efficient snow removal.

During the initial 5 days, warning notices will serve as reminders. Subsequently, violators risk a $23.00 citation. The enforcement aims to ensure smooth snow-clearing operations and maintain safety on the city streets. Residents are urged to comply with the ordinance to avoid penalties and support the city’s efforts in keeping the streets clear during the winter season.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell